How to Properly Store Kitchen Knives

If there were a culinary commandment list, the first rule would probably be: take care of your knives just as they take care of you. Cooking enthusiasts know how essential knives are in the kitchen—and how easily they can be damaged if not properly maintained.

Those who love their knives likely already follow the basics: don’t put them in the dishwasher, don’t leave them in the sink, avoid glass or ceramic cutting boards (use wood or plastic instead), never push ingredients off the board with the blade, sharpen them regularly, and always dry them before storing.

Don’t Just Throw Them in a Drawer

Speaking of storage—how many people actually know how to properly store kitchen knives? And how many still toss them into a cluttered drawer where they bump against each other? After investing in quality knives, it’s a shame to let them be damaged through poor storage habits.

Here are three great ideas for keeping your knives in top shape for years to come:

1. On the Wall

Install a magnetic knife strip on your kitchen wall. It saves drawer and countertop space and keeps all your knives in view, so you can quickly grab the one you need. Make sure the magnet is strong enough to hold the knives securely, but not so powerful that it damages the blade upon contact.

Choose a quality brand to ensure proper balance between hold and protection—Zwilling, for example, is known for producing magnetic strips designed with knife safety in mind.

2. On the Countertop

If you have available space on your kitchen counter, a knife block is another great option. Many knife sets come with a wooden block included, but you can also buy one separately if you already have a varied knife collection.

Important tip: when inserting or removing knives, always avoid scraping the blade against the wood. This keeps the edge sharp and prolongs the life of your knives.

3. In the Drawer

Not just tossed in randomly—use a dedicated in-drawer knife organizer. While not as common as wall or counter storage, this method keeps knives safely tucked away, ideal if you have curious little hands around the house.

Custom wooden drawer inserts can hold knives of all sizes, offering both safety and easy access, all while keeping your kitchen looking clean and organized.

However you choose to store your knives, treat them with care and they’ll reward you with years of precision and performance.